For a d orbital, what is the value of the angular momentum quantum number, l?

• A. l = 3
• B. l = 0
• C. l = 2
• D. l = 1

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the angular momentum quantum number, \(l\), defines the shape of the orbital and can take integer values from 0 up to \(n-1\), where \(n\) is the principal quantum number.
2. Each type of orbital corresponds to a specific value of \(l\): \(l=0\) for s orbitals, \(l=1\) for p orbitals, \(l=2\) for d orbitals, and \(l=3\) for f orbitals.
3. Since the problem asks for the value of \(l\) for a d orbital, identify the corresponding \(l\) value from the list above.
4. Match the d orbital to its angular momentum quantum number, which is \(l=2\).
5. Therefore, the correct value of \(l\) for a d orbital is \(l=2\).